Full Breakdown
Titans' Rookie Wideout Carnell Tate Impresses in First OTAs, Building Chemistry with QB Cam Ward
5/26/2026, 4:45:32 AM
Background & Draft Decision
The Tennessee Titans selected Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, a choice that surprised analysts who expected a defensive player. The move addressed a clear need for a premier target for second-year quarterback Cam Ward, whose 2025 passing attack lacked a true No. 1 receiver. Head coach Robert Saleh, offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, general manager Mike Borgonzi, and assistant GM Dave Ziegler all highlighted Tate’s potential to anchor the receiving corps alongside veterans Calvin Ridley and Wan'Dale Robinson.
OTA Performance Highlights
During the first open OTA, Ward targeted Tate repeatedly. Tate recorded six catches, three of which would have been touchdowns, including a 50-plus-yard score after a coverage error by defensive backs Marcus Harris and Kevin Winston Jr. The drill simulated a hurry-up situation with a four-of-six series, giving Tate ample opportunity to showcase route running and hands.
Data & Statistics
At Ohio State, Tate posted 51 receptions for 875 yards, nine touchdowns and a 17.2-yard average with zero drops. In the OTA drill he logged six receptions, three potential touchdowns and a 50-plus-yard score. The Titans recorded only three passing plays of 40 + yards in 2025; five of Tate’s college touchdowns were 40 + yards. Ward’s 2025 completion rate against press coverage was 17 %.
Official Statements & Outlook
Saleh emphasized that protecting Ward with elite receivers is a top priority and said Tate was the clear choice as the board’s top receiver. Daboll explained the offense will employ motion, bunch formations and close splits to free receivers from press coverage, expressing confidence in Tate’s preparation. Borgonzi noted Tate’s size and vertical ability make him a strong contender for contested downfield catches and that he will line up as the X receiver. Ziegler described a consensus vision for Tate’s capacity to create separation, and receivers coach Greg Lewis applauded the opportunity to work with him.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The quarterback is a pretty damn important piece,” — Robert Saleh, Head Coach
- “He’s got great hands, wins in man coverage, and he’s a strider,” — Cam Ward, Quarterback
- “Tate is a bigger, vertical guy with the ability to play big downfield,” — Mike Borgonzi, General Manager
- “In the NFL, you have to know how to win against press coverage,” — Carnell Tate, Wide Receiver
What’s Next
The Titans will hold three more OTA sessions this week, four in June, and a mandatory minicamp on June 16-17. Training camp starts later in the summer, and Tate is slated to begin the season as the starting boundary receiver in Week 1.
